STD Test & Treat in Thailand: Rapid & PCR 14, 28, 31 Tests

STD Test & Treat in Thailand: Rapid Tests and PCR 14, 28 & 31 Panels

Written by: Dr. Deyn Natthakhet Yaemim (Founding Director) on 6 June 2015 | Last edited: 9 October 2026

Getting an STD test in Thailand is quick, private, and straightforward. Whether you have symptoms, have had unprotected sex, or simply want a routine check-up, modern testing can find infections early and help you avoid complications. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular screening matters even when you feel perfectly well.

This article explains the tests available at PULSE Clinic, from 15-minute rapid tests to our PCR 14, PCR 28, and PCR 31 multiplex panels. It also covers prices, window periods, and when to test. We hope it helps you choose with confidence.

What is PULSE Clinic's Test & Treat program?

Test & Treat is our approach to sexual health care. We offer up-to-date, internationally recognised testing methods, and our doctors start treatment promptly when an infection is found. Many people with an STI are unaware they carry one. For example, most cases of chlamydia produce no symptoms. We therefore recommend testing methods with strong accuracy, because a less sensitive test can miss an infection and give a false sense of reassurance.

What is the difference between an STI and an STD?

STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, and STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. An infection becomes a disease when it causes symptoms or damage. In everyday conversation the two terms are used interchangeably, and we use both on this page. Because many infections stay silent, a person can pass one on without knowing.

Why regular STD testing matters

Testing protects your health and your partners' health. Untreated chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis can cause serious long-term problems, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and damage to the heart, nerves and other organs. Hepatitis B and C can harm the liver, and untreated HIV weakens the immune system.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that untreated STIs contribute to infertility in about 24,000 women in the United States each year. Early testing and treatment greatly reduce this risk.

You may benefit from routine screening if you are sexually active, have a new partner, have multiple partners, or have had sex without a condom, even if you feel healthy.

Common STD symptoms

Some infections cause noticeable signs, while others do not. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or burning when urinating
• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
• Sores, blisters or ulcers in the genital, anal or mouth area
• Rash or itching
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Fever or swollen lymph nodes

If you notice any of these, please get tested as soon as you can. Having no symptoms does not mean you are clear, so testing after a risk is still wise.

The most common STIs we test for

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial STIs and often causes no symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to infertility and other reproductive complications. PCR can detect it from urine or a swab, and antibiotics cure it.

Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea often occurs together with chlamydia and can infect the genitals, throat and rectum. Discharge and painful urination are possible symptoms, but many people have none. Early treatment prevents complications.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses in stages if untreated. Early signs include painless sores and a rash. Blood tests are the standard way to detect it, and PCR on a swab from a sore can help confirm early infection. Antibiotics treat it effectively.

HIV

HIV testing is an essential part of screening. Our options include rapid tests, 4th-generation laboratory tests, and HIV RNA PCR (see below).

Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

Herpes can cause blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals, though many people have no visible symptoms. PCR on a swab from a sore detects it accurately.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

HPV is among the most common STIs worldwide. Some types cause genital warts, and others raise the risk of certain cancers. HPV is not part of our PCR panels. Vaccination and cervical screening are the best protection, and our doctors can advise you.

STD Rapid Test Price

HIV Rapid Test Price

STD PCR Test Price

Important: If you think you were exposed in the last 72 hours, please contact us right away. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is most effective when started within that time.

PCR multiplex panels: PCR 14, PCR 28 and PCR 31

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a molecular test that finds the genetic material of bacteria and viruses, even in tiny amounts. Our multiplex panels check for many infections from a single sample, which is why they suit people who want broad reassurance. Samples can be urine or swabs from the throat, anus, vagina, cervix or a skin sore, and there is also a semen option.

Please choose the sample that matches your sexual activity. A urine test cannot detect an infection that is only in the throat or rectum.

How do the three panels compare?

What is Included in the PCR 14 Full STD Panel Test?

• Chlamydia trachomatis (serovars A-K), which causes chlamydia
• Chlamydia trachomatis (serovars L1-L3), which causes LGV or lymphogranuloma venereum
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes Gonorrhea 
• Trichomonas vaginalis, which causes Trichomoniasis
• Mycoplasma hominis
• Mycoplasma genitalium
• Ureaplasma urealyticum 
• Ureaplasma parvum
• Herpes Simplex Virus type I
• Herpes Simplex Virus type II
• Treponema pallidum, which causes Syphilis
• Haemophilus ducreyi, which causes Chancroid
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
• Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV)

PCR Multiplex DNA Test for 14 infections

Our STD PCR Multiplex is an advanced test that detects 14 infections in various locations, including Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Syphilis, Chancroid, LGV, HSV-1, HSV-2, Trichomonas, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, CMV, and VZV. It can identify infections in the throat, oral cavity, urethra, anorectal area, vagina, cervix, sperm, and skin lesions.

*Same-day results are only available when the sample was taken at the clinic before noon (12 PM).
**Same-day and next-day results are only available at the Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket branches.

PCR Multiplex DNA Test for 28 infections

PCR 28 panel includes everything in PCR 14, plus yeast species (Candida albicans, dubliniensis, glabrata, krusei, lusitaniae, parapsilosis, and tropicalis) and bacteria linked to the vaginal flora and bacterial vaginosis (Atopobium vaginae, Gardnerella vaginalis, Bacteroides fragilis, Megasphaera type 1, Mobiluncus, bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria 2, and Lactobacillus).

Comprehensive STD Screening Package Price at PULSE Clinic

• Prices are in Thai baht
• Price per one location of testing
• Online results will be available at PULSE Online Portal (POP) and the E-Doc mobile application
• For semen/sperm specimens, please avoid all sexual activity that results in ejaculating semen/sperm for 2 - 7 days before providing the sample.
• For PCR28 same-day results, the sample must be taken at the clinic before noon (12.30 p.m.).

PCR 31: Our most comprehensive panel

For individuals seeking maximum peace of mind, our PCR 31 panel is the most extensive molecular screening option available at PULSE Clinic. Building upon the coverage of our PCR 14 and PCR 28 panels, PCR 31 screens for 31 specific pathogens in a single sample collection—ranging from classic sexually transmitted infections to complex vaginal microflora changes, opportunistic fungi, and urinary tract bacteria.

One test. 31 microbes. Multiple body areas.

PCR31 Test - STD Screening Promotion at PULSE Clinic Thailand

• Prices are in Thai baht
• Online results will be available at the PULSE Online Portal (POP) and the E-Doc mobile application
• For same-day result testing, the sample must be taken at the clinic before noon (12:30 PM)
• Same-day and next-day results are only available at the Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket branches

Contact us at info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or chat on your preferred platform:

What Infections Does PCR31 Detects?

PCR31 detects 31 pathogens that cause STD in one go. From most common infections like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, to often unnoticed infections like mycoplasma genitalium that causes urethritis, which when left untreated often go antibiotic-resistant.

A note on reading PCR results

Some organisms on the wider panels, such as Ureaplasma, Mycoplasma hominis, Candida and Gardnerella, can live harmlessly in the body. A positive result does not always mean treatment is needed. PCR can also detect genetic material from organisms that are no longer alive, so a positive shortly after treatment may not mean the infection is active. Our doctors review every result with you in context.

Please also note that PCR 14, 28 and 31 do not replace blood tests for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. We can arrange these at the same visit.

Which test is right for you?

Our doctors will gladly help you choose during your consultation.

When should I test after exposure?

Every infection has a window period, the time between exposure and when a test can reliably detect it. Testing too early can miss an infection.

• Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (PCR): about 14 days after exposure
• HIV RNA PCR: about 10 to 14 days
• HIV 4th generation test: about 18 to 45 days, with a conclusive result at 45 days
• HIV 3rd generation (antibody) test: typically up to 3 months for a conclusive result
• Syphilis and hepatitis B or C (blood tests): may take up to 3 months for a conclusive result

If you are unsure, please come in and we will plan a testing schedule with you. Testing earlier and repeating later is a sensible approach.

What to expect during your visit

Testing is quick. You will register, speak privately with a doctor, and provide your samples. These can include blood, urine, or swabs from the throat, anus or genitals. Most tests involve only brief, minor discomfort.

For a urine test, please avoid urinating for an hour beforehand. For a semen sample, please avoid ejaculation for 2 to 7 days before collection. You do not need to fast.

Walk-ins are welcome, and you can also book online. Results are sent to your email and can be viewed on the PULSE Online Portal and the E-Doc mobile app.

Treatment after testing

Many STIs can be treated effectively. Bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are treated with antibiotics. Viral infections such as HIV and herpes are managed with long-term treatment. Our doctors will also advise you on informing partners and on follow-up testing.

How to prevent STIs

Safer sex is the best way to lower your risk. Please consider:

• Using condoms consistently
• Testing regularly, especially with new or multiple partners
• Vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B
• HIV prevention options such as PrEP
• Starting PEP promptly after a possible HIV exposure

Why choose PULSE Clinic?

• Specialised care in STI diagnosis, treatment and follow-up
• Doctors with more than 10 years of experience
• Confidential, discreet and non-judgemental care in a relaxed setting
• Patients from more than 130 countries
• Same-day, walk-in appointments and online booking
• LGBTQ+ friendly and English-speaking staff
• Home and hotel visit services
• A general practice setting, so no one needs to know why you are visiting

Where to get an STD test in Thailand

If you are looking for confidential and professional STD testing in Bangkok, clinics such as PULSE Clinic offer rapid HIV testing, PCR STI panels, same-day doctor consultations, and LGBTQ+ friendly healthcare. Many locations also provide walk-in testing and online booking for convenience.

Contact us at info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or chat on your preferred platform:

Frequently asked questions

What is an asymptomatic infection?

It means you carry an infection but never develop symptoms. You can still pass it to partners, which is why screening without symptoms is recommended.

What is the difference between PCR 14, PCR 28 and PCR 31?

PCR 14 covers the core sexually transmitted infections. PCR 28 adds yeast and vaginal flora organisms for broader screening, and PCR 31 is our most comprehensive panel. Our doctors can recommend the right one for you.

How soon after exposure should I get tested?

It depends on the infection. PCR for chlamydia and gonorrhoea works from about 14 days. The HIV 4th generation test gives a conclusive result at about 45 days, and syphilis and hepatitis may need up to 3 months.

How long do results take?

Rapid tests take 15 to 60 minutes. PCR results can be ready the same day, the next day, in 3 days, or in 7 days, depending on the option you choose.

Are STD tests confidential in Thailand?

Yes. At PULSE Clinic your results are shared only with you.

Can I get tested if I have no symptoms?

Yes, and we encourage it. Most people with an STI have no symptoms.

Can tourists get tested in Thailand?

Yes. Walk-ins are welcome, our staff speaks English, and rapid options suit travellers. Same-day PCR is available at our Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket branches.

Does STD testing hurt?

No. Tests involve a blood draw, a urine sample, or a swab, with minimal discomfort.

Is STD testing expensive in Thailand?

Prices are generally lower than in many Western countries, and our price lists above show each option clearly.

Are STD tests accurate?

Modern tests are highly accurate when taken after the correct window period. PCR is the most sensitive method for many infections.

Book your STD test today

Looking after your sexual health is a responsible and caring step for yourself and your partners. Please walk in to your nearest PULSE Clinic or book online, and our team will be happy to help.

Contact us at info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or chat on your preferred platform:

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Please consult a healthcare professional about your own situation.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Infertility and STIs fact sheet.
3. World Health Organization. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) fact sheet.